Queen Beatrix equals longest serving monarch

Queen Beatrix has equaled King Willem III's record as the oldest head of state of the Netherlands.

The monarch - who ascended to the throne at the age of 42 - turned 73 today (31.01.11) although official celebrations will not take place until the traditional Queen's Day event on April 30.

Beatrix's mother Queen Juliana died at the age of 94 but she abdicated the throne at 70 in favour of her daughter after declaring her "powers were waning''.

The monarch has had an eventful rule. In 2009 her motorcade was attacked during the annual Queen's Day parade in Apeldoorn, when 38-year-old Karst Tates drove his car at high speeds towards the royal open-topped bus.

The vehicle missed the royal family but ploughed into the watching crowd, killing six spectators and injuring 13 others. Mr. Tates later died of head injuries.

Last year the queen had to be rushed to safety during annual Memorial Day celebrations after a 39-year-old man caused a public disturbance.

In 1966, she married Claus von Amsberg, with whom she had three children: Prince Willem-Alexander, Prince Friso and Prince Constantijn. She was widowed in 2002.